The Volvo XC60 is worth a look if you’re shopping for a relatively affordable luxury SUV. This luxury SUV gets praise for its plush cabin and excellent safety features. To score the best deal, we recommend buying the Volvo XC60 used. And based on its reliability ratings, the 2017 XC60 is one of the best versions to get. 

What it’s like to drive the 2017 Volvo XC60

We’d say the best way to describe the XC60’s handling is smooth, not sporty. That said, this Volvo is a relaxed, comfortable ride that features two available turbocharged engines. The T5 model comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 240-horsepower. You get the same engine on the T6, but it includes a supercharger to generate 302-hp. Both engine options are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. 

Front-wheel-drive came standard on the 2017 XC60 with all-wheel-drive available as an option. The standard engine on the T5 model offers satisfying power and is pleasant to drive. But if you need to tow heavy cargo on a regular basis, we recommend going with the T6 model. 

Experts at Consumer Reports gave the XC60 high marks for its acceleration, transmission, and braking. Although, the XC60 isn’t as impressive in regards to its fuel economy. It gets a combined 20 mpg, which is below average for its class.

The inside is where the XC60 really shines 

The XC60 offers a comfy cabin that’s filled with high-quality materials. This two-row SUV has remarkably supportive seats, and it can easily accommodate five passengers. What distinguishes the XC60’s interior from its rivals is what CR calls Volvo’s “unique Scandinavian design aesthetic.” Leather upholstery came standard on the XC60, and the available metallic or wood trimmings add an interesting touch. The XC60 also gets bonus points for how quiet its cabin is: excess road noise is no problem in this SUV.

The XC60 comes with lots of tech

The standard XC60 T5 trim offers plenty of tech to help you feel more connected on the road. Standard infotainment features include a 7-inch display screen, Bluetooth, navigation, and a wifi hotspot. Volvo’s infotainment system in this model may take you some additional time to get used to, though. There are also quite a few advanced safety features that came standard on the 2017 XC60. These include blind-spot monitoring and low-speed forward collision warning.

Safety and reliability 

CR gave the 2017 XC60 an above-average predicted reliability rating based on its extensive research. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2017 XC60 a perfect crash-test safety score. What’s also impressive is that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named this model a Top Safety Pick+, which is its highest honor. 

While these ratings are exceptional, it’s important to know that the NHTSA recalled the 2017 XC60 four times. Three of the recalls related to the XC60’s airbags. The other was related to the SUV’s in-car electronics. If you’re seriously considering this model, make sure to address these potential issues with your auto dealer.